Family Handbook 2020-2021 Dual Immersion Academy 1155 S. Glendale Dr Salt Lake City, UT 84104
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Family Handbook
2020-2021
Dual Immersion Academy
1155 S. Glendale Dr
Salt Lake City, UT 84104
www.diacharter.org
Main Phone Number (801) 972-1425
1
Mission Statement
The mission of Dual Immersion Academy (DIA) is to provide an academically rigorous curriculum in a
supportive, nurturing environment to prepare students to become Spanish-English bilingual, bi-literate, and
bicultural so students have the tools to be successful in higher education, the workforce, and life.
Vision Statement
DIA graduates have the knowledge, talents and qualities to flourish and make meaningful contribution
to our diverse global society.
History of D.I.A.
Dual Immersion Academy, DIA, is a public charter school meeting the needs of the community of Salt
Lake City. DIA was charted by the state of Utah in March 6th of 2006. The motivation behind the
conception of DIA was to increase the opportunity for parents to provide for their child an educational
foundation necessary to become bi-literate adults.
Non-Discrimination Statement
DIA does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age or other
protected factor.
Board of Directors
Dual Immersion Academy’s Board of Directors is currently a seven-member governance board that
establishes and administers the policy and procedures at DIA. The Board consists of five to seven
members including, a parent advocate (elected by VIA) and the director of the school as an ex-oficio,
or non-voting member. The board meets on the 2nd Tuesday of each month. The public is welcome
to attend any board meeting, unless the meeting is specifically closed. For complete details about the
structure of the board and procedures for speaking at board meetings please refer to the bulletin
board in the main office.
School Staff and Faculty
Each member of DIA wants to see everyone succeed. If there are any concerns please
contact your child’s teacher or administration. Please keep the following information handy
for quick reference if you need to contact the school or refer to the calendar.
2
The main school number is (801) 972-1425; each teacher and administrator has an individual
extension, which is listed below. Please do not call teachers during class time.
DIA Executive Director:
Angela Fanjul angela.fanjul@diacharter.org
Principal:
Suzi Ramos suzi.ramos@diacharter.org
Assessment/Title III Director:
Gloria Tapia janette.fiagle@diacharter.org
DIA After School Director:
Susie Estrada susie.estrada@diacharter.org
Food Services Director:
William Buch william.burch@diacharter.org
Office Manager:
Jazmeen Gonzalez jazmeen.gonzalez@diacharter.org
Administrative Assisst:
yocelin.ramirez@diacharter.org
Yocelin Ramirez
Office Assistant:
laura.duran@diahcharter.org
Laura Duran
Business Director:
Brian Cates, Red Apple bcates@redapplefinance.com
Librarian:
Michelle Jirenec michelle.jirenec@diacharter.org
Pre-Kindergarten:
Sergio Avila sergio.avila@diacharter.org
3
Kindergarten teachers:
Diana Astorga diana.astorga@diacharter.org
Lourdes Ramirez lourdez.ramirez@diacharter.org
Yadira Zacateco yadira.zacateco@diacherter.org
First grade:
Daniela Sanchez daniela.sanchez@diacharter.org
Sandybell Borceguin sandybell.borceguin@diacharter.org
Jazmin Hernandez jazmin.hernandez@diacharter.org
Second grade:
Maria Morales maria.morales@diacharter.org
Marco Torres marco.torres@diacharter.org
Mileidy Marrero mileidy.marrero@diacharter.org
Third grade:
Melany Bosch melany.bosch @diacharter.org
Ludmila Nicolia ludmila.nicolia@diacharter.org
Fourth grade:
Angela Rivas angela.rivas@diacharter.org
Jordan Forte jordan.forte@diacharter.org
4
Fifth grade:
Lisa Fifield lisa.fifield @diacharter.org
Nancy Despain nancy.despain@diacharter.org
6th-8th Social Studies:
Lorena Alejandre lorena.alejandre@diacharter.org
6th-8th Math:
Tamara Webster tamara.webster@diacharter.org
6th-8th Lanuage Arts:
Kirsten Ferguson kirsten.ferguson@diacharter.org
6th-8th Science:
Chris Cutler chris.cutler@diacharter.org
6th-8th Spanish:
Laura Giraldo laura.giraldo@diacharter.org
Music/Theater (elementary & secondary):
Jessica Scott jessica.scott@diacharter.org
Art (elementary & secondary):
Fernando Ordoñez fernando.ordoñez@diacharter.org
P.E. /Health/CTE:
Jyl Sorenson jyl.sorenson@diacharter.org
Special Education:
Jamie Oyler jamie.oyler@diacharter.org
Jessica Perkins jessica.perkins@diacharter.org
5
Table of Contents
Code of Conduct
Admission Policy
Dual Immersion Academy Table of
Enrollment procedures Consequences
Lottery
Withdrawing students Grievance Policy and Procedures
Attendance Policy Drug, Alcohol and Tobacco Policy
Absences
Punctuality/tardiness Uniform Policy
Truancy prevention
Transportation
Student Health Policy
Illness School Meals Program
Illness at school
Chronic conditions Emergency Preparedness Plan
Accidents or Injuries
Medications
Vision Screening
Report Cards and Progress Reports
6Donations
Student-Parent-Teacher conferences Food/Drink policy
Birthdays
Communications Textbooks
Closed campus
Drop off and pick up procedures Lost and Found
Items from home
Special Services Complaints
After school program School property
Art/Music instruction
Preschool Parent Involvement
Library VIA mission statement
Physical education Organizational structure
Nurse Opportunities for involvement
Resource and Special Education
Technology Student Discrimination and Harassment
Policy
Just so you know
Admissions Policy:
Any student is welcome to apply for enrollment at DIA regardless of race, class, national origin,
special needs, religion, gender or any other protected factors provided there is an opening. To
be eligible for Kindergarten, a child must be five (5) on or before September 1st of the admission
year.
Submission of an Enrollment Application does not guarantee that a child will be accepted.
Should there be more students wishing to attend than openings, students will be selected by
lottery. In order to attain a balance of Spanish-dominate and English, or other language-
dominant students, DIA will hold two lotteries and maintain two waiting lists.
Children of Teachers may be given preference for enrollment. Returning students will be given
preference for re-enrollment for subsequent years, provided that they complete and return the
necessary documentation required within the defined timeline. Siblings of enrolled students will
be given preferential enrollment.
Students not selected will be placed on the appropriate waiting list and offered enrollment as it
becomes available. Dual Immersion Academy will not discriminate in its admission policies or
practices.
Enrollment Procedures:
Documents needed for enrollment are birth certificate, immunization records or exemption letter
as provided for in section 53A-11-302. Parents/Guardians must turn in the Intent to Enroll form
by the specified date. Open Enrollment begins January 1st. After the lotteries are held,
7parents/guardians will be notified by February 1st. if their student was selected.
Parents/Guardians must notify the school within 48 hours to confirm their placement at the
school.
Lottery:
Lottery applications will be accepted during a pre-determined enrollment window each year.
The dates of the enrollment period will be posted on our website and at the school. The lottery
drawing to be held within five (5) days after the enrollment window closes. Parents of accepted
children will be notified within 10 days of the lottery. Parents are expected to return a signed
commitment card, stating that they have read DIA’s policies and agree to the terms explained,
within 7 calendar days of notification. Once a child is drawn in the lottery his/her siblings will be
automatically added to the list of enrolled students, provided there is a spot within the class for
them. Parents will be notified if there is no room in the class for a sibling, at which point the
parent will be given the opportunity to accept or decline the position. Children in this
circumstance will be moved to the top of their respective waiting list.
Registration:
To fully register your child at DIA the following documents are required:
1. Health Exam
2. Eye examination
3. Dental examination (kindergarteners)
4. Proof of age i.e. birth certificate, passport or other official government issued document
5. Immunization record. The following immunizations are required by law (53A-11-301)
for a child entering school:
a. 4 DPT
b. 3 Polio
c. 2 MMR (measles, mumps and rubella)
d. 3 Hepatitis B
e. 2 Hepatitis A
f. 1 Varicella (chicken pox)
g. TB test should also be included
Your doctor should be able to print out this information and fax it to the main office at 972-9482.
If your family opts out of immunizations for religious, health or other reasons an exemption letter
must be attached to the student’s immunization record form. (53A-11-302)
Withdrawing a student:
If you are moving or withdrawing your student for any other reason, please notify the office in
advance so that there is enough time to complete the proper paperwork.
Class Assignments:
Class assignments are made by a uniform procedure in order to ensure a balanced mix of Spanish
dominant children and children dominant in English or another language. Based on state funding
there will be approximately twenty-five (25) students in each class with two or more classes for
each grade.
8Attendance Policy:
Regular attendance has a direct correlation with learning and achievement. Parents are urged
to have children in school except for illness and emergencies.
Under Utah state law, parents or guardians are obliged to enforce compulsory school
attendance laws, which means parents/guardians having control of a minor between six (6) and
eighteen (l8) years of age are responsible for sending the minor to school.
Definitions:
Absence is defined as student non-attendance for one or part of one day.
Excused absence is when the office is notified of the absence for a reason defined by the State
as:
1. Illness:
2. Medical appointment
3. Family emergencies
4. Death of family member or close friend
5. Family activity or travel with pre approval of the administration
Unexcused: Any reason not listed above
Absences:
When a student is absent, a parent/guardian must call the front office with an explanation of the
absence. Call (801) 972-1425 when your child is absent. Absences of 3 or more days due to
illness require a note form the doctor upon returning to school.
It is the responsibility of the student to obtain make-up assignments. For each excused
absence, two days will be given to complete make up assignments.
If a prolonged absence is anticipated contact your child’s teacher to arrange for missed work.
Tardy and Attendance Procedure: Please note that students will be marked tardy up to 10
minutes late after the bell rings at 8:15 a.m. (and secondary students who have multiple classes
need to transition and make it to their various classes on time). Students who are tardy 3 times
will receive notification from the school, and parents may be required to meet with
administration to create an attendance plan. Students with 5 tardies or more will be required to
meet with administration. Failure to meet the specifics of a plan or continued tardies may result
in expulsion. Students who arrive to class more than 10 minutes late will be marked absent and
will need a parent note to be cleared through the office before being sent to class. Please make
it a priority to get your students to school on time so classes can start promptly at 8:15 a.m. (and
help us remind our secondary students to get to each of their classes on time).
Tardiness:
Students should attend class daily and on time. Student attendance and tardiness is recorded
daily. Students arriving after 8:25 a.m. must report to the front office for an admittance slip.
Unacceptable reasons for being late include but are not limited to: baby-sitting, sleeping in, lack
of transportation, helping with housework, running errands, visiting relatives, trouble with the
alarm clock, or a bad morning.
Being on time to school is important in allowing each student to get off to a good start each day,
an important skill for school as well as life. Tardiness and entering the classroom after the start
time is disruptive to the entire class and robs others of important instruction time.
9A parent, teacher, or a school administrator may request a conference to discuss the
attendance of a student whom they deem to have an excessive number of absences. The
proposed conference would consider steps that might be taken to improve attendance. A
request for such a conference would precede a referral to juvenile court for truancy.
Testing Days:
Parents will be notified of testing days. They will be posted on the calendar and sent home with
students during the month of testing. We strongly encourage you to avoid any planned
absences, such as a vacation, during important testing times.
Student Sign-in and Check-out Procedures:
Removing a student prior to the 3:00 p.m. (1:00 p.m. on Fridays) release time is a
disruption to the child, a loss of valuable instruction time, and an interruption for the
entire class. Students will not be released to parents or guardians early for the
convenience of the parent. If early release is necessary be prepared to show the
secretaries a doctor’s appointment card.
If it is necessary for a student to leave school during the school day, a parent/guardian or
designated person on the emergency card must sign the child out at the front office. In the
interest of student safety, please be ready to show photo identification when requesting to have
contact with a student.
Truancy Prevention Policy:
It is the policy of Dual Immersion Academy to empower students to develop skills necessary to
function in modern society through regular attendance of school. DIA’s truancy prevention policy
is consistent with Utah codes 53A-11-101 through 53a-11-105.
Truancy is defined as any time a student out of class, missing part of or a full day, without the
proper permission.
When a student is truant, the director or other authorized personnel shall issue a truancy citation
for each truancy. [53A-11-103]
The administration and staff shall make earnest and persistent efforts to resolve a student’s
attendance problems. These efforts shall include, as reasonably feasible:
1. Counseling of student by school authorities;
2. Enlisting parental support for attendance by the student;
3. Requiring the student to attend additional hours of school outside of regular school
hours;
4. Meeting with the student and parents or guardian;
5. Adjusting the curriculum and schedule if necessary to meet special needs of the
student;
6. Monitoring of attendance by parents and school authorities;
7. Enlisting the assistance of community and law enforcement agencies as
appropriate.[53A-11-103(1)]
10Student Health Policy:
Students perform best academically when they are feeling healthy and well. If your child is sick
please take the time to call the front office.
Before sending your children to school please make sure they are well enough to be in school.
Do not assume they will get better at school. Understand that we have no way of caring for sick
children.
Illness
If your child has any of the following symptoms please do not send them to school and we urge
you to seek a professional medical diagnosis:
*Fever *nausea or vomiting
*Abdominal pain *fatigued or unusual drowsiness
*Diarrhea *sore throat
*Persistent cough *non allergy runny nose
*Non allergy eye discharge *suspected head lice
*Skin rash of unknown origin *any skin sore oozing with fluid
*Swollen glands around ear and neck *suspected impetigo
Please keep your child home if he/she has symptoms of acute illnesses such as:
*Diphtheria *Mumps *Measles
*Strep infection *Whooping cough *Ringworm
*Pink eye *Scabies *Infectious mononucleosis
Children who have the chicken pox are not allowed back in to school until all sores have healed.
Illness at school:
If your child becomes ill at school we will make every effort to reach a parent/guardian who
should be available to check the sick child out and take them home. Please keep your
emergency numbers up to date with the front office. It can be very distressing to a sick child to
not be able to reach a family member when they are needed. Sick children will not be allowed
to walk home alone.
Chronic or serious conditions such as diabetes, epilepsy, asthma and similar conditions that
could require emergency treatment should be brought to the attention of school personnel
immediately and recorded on their registration card. This is very important for the safety of your
child.
First Aid/Accidents and Injuries: Please keep all emergency contact information current on
the registration card. In the case of an accident or injury the following procedures will be
followed:
1. The student should report the injury to his/her teacher.
2. If the injury is minor it will be treated in the office.
3. In a more serious situation the parents will be notified immediately.
4. School personnel cannot take a child to the doctor unless it is an absolute emergency.
11Medications—dispensing and storing: (53A-11-601) Teachers cannot administer any
medications. A designated medication administrator under certain conditions can administer
medication at the front office:
1. Students who need to take any medication must have a signed note from his/her
parent/guardian and a signed note from the doctor. (Forms available in the front
office)
2. Prescription medications should be brought in to the main office in the original
prescription container.
3. Records of administered doses will be kept on file in the front office.
4. It is the parent’s responsibility to maintain an adequate supply of the medication.
5. For safety reasons medication will not be sent home with the child, we request that
a parent/guardian retrieve medication from the office.
6. For short-term medications such as antibiotics, please make arrangements to
administer the dose yourself.
7. Students may carry a daily dose of necessary medications and multi doses of
medication for diseases such as diabetes and asthma provided that parents and
health care providers have completed and submitted the Student Medication Form
(available in the front office).
Vision Screenings:
Vision screenings are mandated by the state of Utah. Students under the age of 7 must have a
certificate signed by a licensed physician, optometrist, or other licensed health professional
approved by the division, stating that the child has received vision screening to determine the
presence of amblyopic or other visual defects (53A-11-203). DIA will routinely screen children
in kindergarten, first grade, second grade, third grade and sixth grade. At the request of parents
or teachers, students will also be screened. DIA will report to the Division of services of the
Blind and Visually impaired any child that fails the vision screening. At any time a parent may
request that their child be exempt from screening.
Code of Conduct:
DIA embraces the philosophy of positive discipline as our primary source of guidance in the
classroom. Kind words, encouragement and affirmation motivate children much better than
embarrassment and harsh words.
This method of discipline nurtures and empowers students to behave positively in the
classroom. We want to teach students to be motivated by the successful outcome from being
part of the solution rather than being part of the problem. It is our goal to teach students how to
resolve conflict in a constructive way and to grow into responsible, contributing adults.
DIA faculty receive instruction and training on the philosophy and implementation of this
approach and we will be guided by:
Treating all students with respect, dignity, and by example; showing the students how
individuals learn to get along with others
Taking the opportunity to have students practice solving problems independently by
providing appropriate guidance if necessary
Being active in the supervision of students both in the classroom and throughout the
school site
12Teachers will extend these behavioral expectations in the classroom with modification for age
and circumstances. Most minor problems will be handled at the classroom level implementing
the warning system as necessary. If serious infractions occur or the safety of any student is
threatened, the student will be escorted to the administration immediately for further discipline
and the parent/guardian will be contacted as necessary. Further discipline may include
suspension. For a complete viewing of the DIA School-wide Behavior Management Plan please
refer to Appendix D.
13Dual Immersion Academy Table of Consequences
Infraction 1st Offense 2nd Offense 3rd Offense
Minor Discipline Parent Note & Parent Email & Parent Email &
[same class/situation] 1 Day Detention 2 Days Detention 3 Days Detention
Parent Conference &
Serious Discipline Parent Phone Call & Parent Phone Call &
1-3 Days Out-of-school
[same class/situation] 4 Days Detention 5 Days Detention
Suspension
Parent/Staff Conference &
Parent Conference & Parent/Staff Conference &
Major Discipline 7-10 Days Out-of- school
1-3 Days Out-of-school 4-6 Days Out-of-school
[same class/situation] Suspension Suspension
Suspension or
Recommended Expulsion
Offense
“Discipline” Classifications:
1. “Minor Discipline” (teachers typically handle these issues 1st) – includes, but is not limited to:
- Chewing Gum (3rd violation = 1st offense)
- Disrespect to adults and/or other students (3rd violation = 1st offense)
- Disrupting Class (3rd violation = 1st offense)
- Dress Code Violation (3rd violation = 1st offense)
- Tardies (3rd violation = 1st offense)
- Unexcused Absences – more than 10 minutes late to class (1st violation = 1st offense)
- Not working in class, no homework, or late homework
2. “Serious Discipline” – includes, but is not limited to:
- Cheating (the student will also receive a 0 on the assessment)
- Inappropriate Language/Swearing
- Verbal harassment
- Physical harassment
- Sexual harassment/Public Display of Affection
- Written or Cyber harassment
- Chronic issues with not working in class and/or not turning in homework
3. “Major Discipline” – includes, but is not limited to:
- Fighting
- Physical assault
- Sexual assault
- Substance abuse
- Theft
- Vandalism
- Refusal to do work in class and/or homework
- Inappropriate use of school property
Note: Law enforcement officers may be notified.
4. Expulsion will be recommended for the following behaviors:
- Arson
- Assault on a school employee or a volunteer
- Being under the influence or the consumption of alcohol, drugs, illegal substances, or
legal substances (if used for illegal purposes)
- Distribution and/or sale of an illegal substance or a legal substance (if used for illegal
purposes)
- Rape
- Weapons
Note: Law enforcement officers will be notified.
14Notes:
• Due process will be afforded all students.
• Fair and age-appropriate discipline will be administered to all students.
• The director or assistant director may modify consequences as deemed appropriate.
• Alternate consequences may be available upon parent/guardian request to a school administrator.
• Students who fail to attend detention(s) and/or comply with suspension(s) will be given additional
consequences, and a parent/guardian will be notified.
• “Suspension” is defined as a temporary removal of all school-related privileges. This includes, but
is not limited to, the loss of the following privileges: attendance in class, lunch with friends, and
attendance at school assemblies or other school-related activities.
Grievance Policy and Procedures
The purpose of this policy is to clarify for parents and employees a process by which
concerns and complaints against school employees are to be addressed. The Board of
Directors believes in encouraging parents to assume their rights and responsibilities to
positively influence the education of their children. At Dual Immersion Academy, we
hope parents always feel comfortable expressing their concerns and complaints. We
also hope that parents will seek and find ways to volunteer both in and out of the
classroom so we can work together in providing students with a superior educational
experience.
A simple procedure has been outlined to address any grievance with a Dual Immersion
Academy administrator, teacher, or staff member. Please see the “Investigative Appeals
Process” below for handling disability, discrimination, Section 504, Special Education,
and/or any other concerns or complaints with a school employee. The Executive
Director is the ADA/Section 504 Coordinator and the IDEA LEA Representative. As
such, the Executive Director shall investigate and reply to all complainants.
Investigative Appeals Process
A complainant must either be a student or a parent/guardian of a student. A
parent/guardian can only be a complainant for student issues regarding his/her own
student(s). If parents/guardians have an issue with a student other than their own
student, they must address the problem directly with the Executive Director.
The following steps shall be followed if you have a specific concern with a Dual
Immersion Academy administrator, teacher, or staff member:
• Step 1: Concerns involving administration, teachers, or staff members should first
be addressed with the individual(s) directly involved.
• Step 2: If the issue is not resolved to the complainant’s satisfaction, the
complainant should address the concern with the Executive Director.
• Step 3: If the issue is still not resolved to the complainant’s satisfaction (or if the
specific issue concerns the Executive Director), a written complaint may be filed
with Dual Immersion Academy’s Board President.
15The following steps shall be followed if you have a specific concern with a policy,
procedure, or practice at Dual Immersion Academy:
• Step 1: Contact a school administrator with the specific concern(s), providing
possible solutions to help address the problem.
a. If the concern is directly related to administrative practices or procedures,
you should address your concern directly to the Executive Director.
b. If your concern deals specifically with school policy, you should address
your concern with the Executive Director. She may request that your
concern be added to the next Board meeting agenda. The Board
President has discretion over Board Meeting Agenda items.
• Step 2: If the issue remains unresolved (or if the specific issue concerns the
Executive Director), a written complaint may be filed with Dual Immersion
Academy’s Board President.
The following procedure applies if you feel you or your student has been treated
unfairly, been the victim of discrimination, or received treatment in a manner
which is in violation of state or federal law:
• Step 1: A complainant shall complete, sign, and submit the written grievance
form (see attached) to the Executive Director. The Exec. Director shall
investigate the matter and reply in writing to the complainant within 10 business
days of the receipt of the complaint.
• Step 2: If the complainant wishes to appeal the Executive Director’s decision
he/she may submit a signed statement of appeal to Dual Immersion Academy’s
Board President within 10 business days after receipt of the Exec. Director’s
response. The Board President may meet with some or all of the parties
involved, formulate a conclusion, and respond in writing to the complainant within
10 business days of receipt of the appeal.
• Step 3: If the complainant is unsatisfied with the Board President’s decision,
he/she may appeal through a signed written statement to the Board of Directors.
The following chain of command after the local Board of Directors is as follows:
o Utah State Charter School Director
o Utah State Charter School Board Chair
o Utah State Charter School Board
o Utah State School Board Chair
o Utah State School Board
If any person believes that the school or any of its staff has inadequately applied the regulations
of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, he/she may initiate a complaint with the Utah
State Office of Education’s Education Equity Coordinator or through the US Department of
Education’s Office of Civil Rights (OCR) at any time before, during, or after the local grievance
procedures. The contact information for both offices are as follows:
16Utah State Office of Education Office for Civil Rights, Denver Office
Richard Gomez U.S. Department of Education,
Education Equity Coordinator Cesar E. Chavez Memorial Building
250 East 500 South | PO Box 144200 1233 Speer Boulevard, Suite 310
Salt Lake City, UT | 84114-4200 Denver, CO 80204 – 3582
Student Behavior Policy:
The purpose of discipline within the school setting is to provide a safe and positive learning
environment. Discipline means to teach and is used as a positive way of guiding children to learn self-
control. In order for discipline to be a teaching experience each discipline issue will be handled on an
individual basis. Because each issue will be handled separately the consequences will not always be
equal for similar infractions but rather the goal will be to be fair so that teaching can occur.
Prohibited conduct is forbidden at school, on school grounds and at school functions
A. Prohibited conduct that may result in a student being removed from the school includes:
1. Will-full disobedience or violation of a school rule
2. Defying authority
3. Disruptive behavior
4. Assault/battery
5. Abusive language (foul, profane or vulgar)
6. Destroying, defacing or vandalizing school property
7. Burglary or theft
8. Posing a significant threat to harm self or other students
9. Posing a threat to the welfare and safety of students, personnel or the operation of the
school.
10. Possessing, using or being under the influence of alcohol, drugs, imitation drugs, drug
paraphernalia or misusing any substance (including inhaling).
11. Possessing or using tobacco products
12. Bullying-aggressive, verbal or physical, intimidating behavior towards students of staff.
13. Sexual or other harassment
14. Inappropriate exposure of body parts
15. Gang related activity or attire
16. Chronic abuse of school policies
B. Prohibited conduct that will absolutely result in a student’s removal from the school:
1. Possession or control of a real weapon, explosive or noxious/flammable material.
2. The actual or threatened use of a look-alike or pretend weapon.
3. Possession, control, sale or use of alcohol, drugs or controlled substances.
Students will sign a contract with DIA stating they have read and understand the policies of DIA and
these offences, if committed, will lead to suspension of the student or expulsion from the school.
Contract can be found at the back of this handbook.
17Suspension Policy:
Serious violations will be referred to the office where the administration will determine the
consequence. All staff members will be trained before school begins regarding the procedures for an
office referral and what types of behavior require such a referral.
Parents will be called for a parent conference to assess the behavior. After-school detention, in-
school suspension, out-of-school suspension and expulsion are other options, which will be left to
administration’s discretion.
Short-term suspension procedures:
If the administration decides to suspend for less than 10 days the following procedures will be
followed:
1. Parents and Student will be notified immediately of the schools intent to suspend
2. Student will hear a brief explanation of the reason(s) for suspension prior to the actual
suspension
3. The student will have an opportunity to tell his/her side of the story
4. The student/administrator meeting will be entered into the written record or permanent
computer file
Long-term suspension procedures:
If the student is to be suspended for more than 10 days DIA will provide for the following minimum
standards:
1. Written notice to student and parents/guardians
2. Notice of opportunity for timely hearing
3. At the request of parents/guardians a hearing will be scheduled no more than 5 days from the
suspension at which time parents/guardians shall receive notice of:
a. Names of witness against him/her and the opportunity to present witnesses*
b. Reasonable time to prepare the case
c. The opportunity for counsel if DIA uses an attorney
d. The right to notice of procedures for the hearing in writing form the student handbook
or form the school’s website
e. The right to have the hearing recorded
f. A fair hearing officer (a credible and objective person or panel-not necessarily
uninformed)
4. The decision must not be based solely on hearsay
5. The student has no official protection against self-incrimination (unless criminal charges are
pending in which case there will be consultation with local law enforcement)
6. A decision will be made only on the evidence presented at the hearing
7. Student or parent/guardian has the right to written findings
8. Decision is made by a preponderance (>50%) of the evidence
9. Student will have at least one level of appeal
If the student or parent/guardian refuses the opportunity given them to explain or have a hearing or
waives that right then due process has been satisfied.
Make-up work will be allowed during the suspension however the work may not be exactly what the
student missed.
18School holidays and professional development days shall not impede the due process.
Suspension is measured in school days not calendar days.
Expulsion
The permanent dismissal of a student is an extreme measure to be taken only as a last resort:
1. After all other efforts of motivation and counseling have failed or
2. Where circumstances of crime, scandal or disruption constitute a threat to the welfare of
others
Students with disabilities: There are procedural safeguards under the Individual with Disabilities
Education Act or section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act that may apply to students with IEPs. Parents
are encouraged to speak with a SpEd teacher, SpEd Director, or school administrator in regards to
any questions and concerns.
Bullying and Harassment
Bullying happens when someone continually hurts, frightens, threatens, or excludes someone on
purpose. Bullying will not be tolerated whether perpetrated by students or parents. DIA reserves the
right to discipline any child, according to procedures in this handbook, for bullying. Any parent who
participates in bullying behavior will be asked to leave school grounds.
Cyberbullying: is the use of electronic information and communication devices, to include but not be
limited to, e-mail messages, instant messaging, text messaging, cellular telephone communications,
internet blogs, internet chat rooms, internet postings, and defamatory websites that: deliberately
threatens, harasses, intimidates an individual or group of individuals; or places an individual in
reasonable fear of harm to the individual or damage to the individual’s property; or has the effect of
substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the school.
Drug, Alcohol and Tobacco Policy:
No tobacco, alcohol or drugs are allowed on school property.
Students possessing, using or being under the influence of alcohol, drugs, imitation drugs, drug
paraphernalia or misusing any substance (including inhaling) are subject to immediate consequences
including expulsion, see table of consequences.
Possessing or using tobacco products by students may result in suspension/expulsion.
Sale or use of alcohol, drugs or controlled substances is completely forbidden among staff and
students and shall be cause for suspension/expulsion or termination of employment.
Locker Policy
Secondary students at DIA will be assigned a personal or shared locker with a combination. DIA
reserves the right to search any locker if there is a suspicion that there might be evidence of
inappropriate activity.
Uniform policy ( Established July,2011)
The purpose of DIA’s uniform policy is to simplify our students’ mode of dress in order to focus
attention and time on their education. At DIA we want to minimize the attention paid to clothing and
19to promote the idea that students are defined by who they are and not what they wear. Uniform
policies are also important for (1) a decrease in violence and gang association (2) improve school
safety and discipline and (3) decrease theft from other students. The director will make the final
determination regarding appropriate school, dress, and appearance.
We ask that parents/guardians at DIA have their children dressed in uniform clothing each morning
when they leave for school. Parents of students who are out of uniform will be notified. Anytime a
student is out of uniform, parents will be called to bring in appropriate clothing or the student will be
given clean uniform attire from school supplies before attending class at a cost to parents.
Consequences for continual issues with uniform are defined in the ‘DIA Table of Consequences”. All
clothing must fit properly and be in good condition with no rips, tears, or holes. No advertising or
writing except for DIA issued wear.
Hair - Hair must be neat, clean, and well-groomed. Hair should not draw unnecessary attention to
itself. As such, extreme hair colors and/or styles are not permitted.
Hair Accessories - Hair accessories are to be small (no larger than the size of the student's fist) and
not extreme in color, style, or form. Any item should not draw unnecessary attention to itself.
Make up - Make up is only permitted on girls in grades 7 and 8. Make up should be tasteful and not
draw attention to itself. Extreme colors and/or styles are not permitted.
Shorts and Pants
Boys and girls may wear neat and clean knee-length shorts or neat and clean full-length pants in
either khaki or dark brown colors. No other colors or shades of brown are permitted. Pants are not to
be excessively baggy or tight. Pants are to be worn around the waist/hips and not lower.
Skirts and Dresses
Girls may wear neat and clean khaki skirts or dresses instead of pants. Skirts and dresses must fall to
at least the top of the knee.
Belts
Students are not required to tuck in their shirts as long as the shirt length is reasonable and does not
hang down too low. Belts are only required when students tuck in their shirts and when the pants or
skirts have belt loops.
Tops
All tops are to be neat and clean at all times. Only DIA logoed, short- and long-sleeve tops in one of
the 3 school colors are required (white, green, or pink). Other approved tops, such as DIA sports
team shirts, student council sweaters, and event shirts (i.e., DIA Walk-a-thon shirts) are permitted, as
approved by school administration.
Sweaters, Sweatshirts, and Jackets
DIA sweatshirts and hoodies are permitted in the classrooms, but hoods or hats are not to be worn
indoors.
20Non-DIA sweaters, sweatshirts, and jackets may be worn in the classrooms if they are accompanied
by a DIA logo shirt underneath and are in one of the official DIA colors: white, pink, or forest green.
All non-DIA sweaters, sweatshirts, and jackets MUST button or zip up the front to allow visibility of the
official DIA uniform. Non-DIA pullover sweaters, sweatshirts, and jackets will NOT be allowed inside
the classroom.
Socks
Students must wear solid white, black, or dark brown socks. Girls may wear tights of the same solid
colors or hose, as appropriate.
Shoes
Students must wear primarily solid white, black, or dark brown shoes. Very small logos and/or colors
on shoes are permitted as long they are minimal and not distracting. Shoes should not draw attention
to themselves.
Outer Wear
Any offensive or inappropriate outerwear, determined by the director, will not be allowed and parents
will be notified.
Shorts, pants, skirts, and dresses required to conform to uniform policy may be purchased at a variety
of stores (i.e. Target, Old Navy, Sears) generally in stock from July –October or online all year long.
Many of these clothing items may be found at the Deseret Industries or other thrift stores. All other
uniform items may be purchased in the front office.
Not Acceptable
• Denim or jean style slacks or shorts
• fish net stockings
• Warm-up or athletic pants or shorts of any kind
• Bib overall slacks
• Gym shorts, biking shorts, and other athletic pants
• Flip-flops, sandals, clogs and platform shoes
• Heely’s or other shoes with wheels
• Hats worn indoors
• Exposed underwear or T-shirts larger and longer than outer shirts
• Oversized pants or shirts
Jewelry, Cosmetics, etc:
Jewelry worn to school must be kept to a minimum. Dangling earrings, chains and
bracelets, etc. can be restrictive and hazardous as well as distracting in the classroom and on the
playground. Body piercing jewelry must be limited to the ears. Students may be asked not to wear
some jewelry to school. Students may not wear or bring cosmetics or make up of any kind to school.
Body paint, tattoos, etc. are not permitted.
Girls are permitted to wear one set of small earrings, one small necklace, and one small bracelet.
Boys are permitted to wear one small necklace and one small bracelet. Jewelry and other
21accessories are not to be extreme in color, style, or form. Any item should not draw unnecessary
attention to itself.
Administration maintains the right at any time to make judgment calls regarding the appropriateness
of hair, hair accessories, jewelry, make-up, clothes, shoes, etc. Students who are determined to be
out of uniform will be required to come into full compliance to remain in class/school. Students who
lack appropriate clothing will be allowed to call home to have a parent/guardian bring the necessary
item(s) to school for the student to be compliant to the uniform policy.
Exceptions to the Uniform Policy:
Some field trips and special events may call for appropriate, non-uniform clothing such as hiking
clothes or dress clothes. Parents are informed in advance of such occasions.
At the discretion of the director, an exemption to the uniform policy may be made.
Transportation:
DIA will not be able to provide transportation. Transportation will have to be arranged by the
student’s family. For carpooling information please refer to the appropriate committee in the
volunteer organization, VIA.
School Meals Program
DIA participates in the Federal School Breakfast and Lunch Program. This program provides eligible
students to receive meals at a free or reduced price. Applications for this program may be found in your
registration packet and are also available at the main office. All information provided on this form will be
kept confidential.
22Please note the following details about the meal program:
• If your child is not allowed to eat or is allergic to certain foods please contact the school cafeteria
manager for assistance
• Meal money may be paid yearly, quarterly, monthly or weekly. Meals must be paid for in
advance. Children will not be allowed to charge their meals. Please pay at the front office and
include the names of your child/ children.
• Students not buying a lunch are expected to bring a lunch from home. Please, no glass
containers.
Emergency Preparedness Plan
Drills: Fire, earthquake, intruder and other emergency drills will be held at regular intervals. Teachers will
provide safety instructions at the beginning of the year and will be reviewed periodically. Each classroom
will have a copy of procedures to follow during an emergency as well as some emergency supplies. It is
critical that when an emergency signal is given every one in the building obeys orders, and clear the
building as quickly as possible according to the emergency plan. If students are evacuated one of two
predetermined sites will provide safe housing of the children until parents can retrieve students. The
volunteer organization, VIA, will activate the phone tree to notify parents of unusual situations. Please
make sure the information you provide to VIA is correct and that you understand your role in the phone
tree. (See Appendix V for phone tree procedures)
Family plan:
It is encouraged that each family have an emergency plan that each child can follow in the event of an
emergency. If you would like help in creating a plan, please seek assistance from the VIA organization,
where families help each other.
School Closure, early dismissal and delayed start:
DIA will be open on all school days unless circumstances create health or safety concerns for the
students or faculty.
Severe weather conditions may force school closures, delayed start times or call for an early dismissal
time. Calling the main office (801) 972-1425 a pre-recorded message will notify of a closure. Parents
should also monitor television and radio stations (Fox 13 news and Telemundo among others) for
information.
No announcements will mean that school is open.
Emergency Procedures:
The following are procedures that the children will be given in the event of an emergency.
Bomb Threat: Personnel will note any suspicious packages and the school will be evacuated if
deemed necessary by the person in charge.
Earthquake: Drop, cover and hold. Evacuate when told to outdoor open space away from
power lines: drop and cover neck and head.
23Fire: Students will exit in an orderly way, along assigned routes. Remain on school
grounds awaiting further instructions.
Flood: Students will be moved to the highest elevation.
Hazardous Spill: Close windows and await further instructions.
Inclement weather: At the Director’s discretion, school may be closed due to bad weather. Parents
should listen to radio stations or calls from the “phone tree”
Evacuation: Parents are required to claim their children according to procedures normally
followed by the school as soon as possible. Children may be relocated to the LDS
Church across from the school or the Sorenson Multicultural Center.
A campus exit route map is posted in each classroom. In case of an emergency evacuation, the only
people DIA will release students to, will be the people listed on the emergency cards.
A copy of the complete Emergency Plan is available at the office.
Academic Parent Teacher Teams (APTT):
Academic Parent Teacher Teams (APTT) meetings will be held three times per year. APTT meetings
give parents and teachers the opportunity to work together to discuss student progress and to make
individualized student goals. While attendance is not mandatory, DIA requests the attendance of
every parent. If you need to meet with your teacher more often than this or if a problem arises;
please contact the teacher to set up an appointment. Parents may ask for a meeting at any time, and
are always welcome to visit the school or classrooms. Attendance at APTT meetings can be used as
part of your 40 hours of volunteer service.
Communications:
DIA has designated Thursday as home correspondence day. Please look for information, newsletters,
and notes from the school and your child’s teacher every Thursday.
Cumulative records
Parents/guardians who would like to examine their student’s cumulative file should request an
appointment with the front office. Copies of the cumulative file can be requested but may take up to
48 hours.
Communications with non-custodial parents
24DIA will abide by the Buckley Amendment with respects to the non-custodial parents. Unless
provided with a court order that states otherwise, DIA will provide the non-custodial parent with
access to academic records and to other related school information.
Drop off and pick up procedures
Student safety is a priority at DIA and drop off and pick up procedures at school can be a confusing
time. We ask that parents please show patience, respect and consideration for other parents and their
children. DIA expects parents to model the good behavior we expect your children to follow.
For the safety of all children please refrain from using cell phones during drop off and pick up times.
Drop off:
The first entrance (marked with an arrow) is for entrance only. Vehicles should enter the property
from Glendale Drive. Drop off children at the main entrances only. Children should exit the vehicles
on the right hand side on to the sidewalk. Vehicles should then proceed off school grounds through
the marked exit onto Glendale Drive. For the safety of all children, please refrain from using cell
phones during drop off and pick up times.
Parents wishing to walk their child into school should park in a designated parking spot. Leaving
vehicles parked in the through traffic lane is a fire violation and may result in vehicle removal. Once
children are with their teachers and lined up for school all parents must leave school grounds or sign
in at the main office for a volunteer badge.
DIA Morning Policy:
In order to ensure that all our DIA students are safe under the supervision of a teacher and/or
staff person at all times, we ask that all parents, teachers, staff members, and students abide
by the following DIA morning policy:
• Upon arriving at school ALL students must go immediately to the cafeteria for
breakfast, the computer lab to do homework or computer work and/or outside (or gym
due to bad weather) until the first bell rings at 8:10 a.m. Parents who sign in at the
front desk are welcome to accompany their children to the cafeteria or outside (or
gym). Students may not be in hallways by classrooms unless they are with a
parent/guardian. A parent should not take his/her child to the classroom hallway and
leave the child there alone.
Exception #1: The parent/guardian and student have an appointment with a teacher.
Exception #2: A student has come early to work with a teacher and has a note from
the teacher or is actually with the teacher.
• Before the first bell rings students need to use the bathrooms by the cafeteria
• Neither parents or students should use the doors at the end of classroom hallways to
exit
• When the first bell rings, all students whether in the cafeteria or outside, are expected
to go outside to line up with their class.
25Pick up:
School is dismissed at 3pm and parents are expected to retrieve their children by 3:10. Any student
remaining after 3:15 will be entered into the after school program and all fees will apply.
Kindergarteners must be picked up at the gate to the small playground.
Hallway 2 will be released through the double doors closest to the driveway entrance.
Hallway 3 will be released through the main office doors.
Hallway 4 will be released through the gated breezeway.
6th- 8th grade students will be released from their hallway.
Older siblings who need to pick up younger siblings must first exit with their class then use the
covered outside sidewalk to retrieve siblings.
Waiting outside for your children is the best way to connect with them.
If your child has left items inside the school you may re-enter the building at 3:15 with your child to
retrieve the items.
Special Services:
Art and Music Instruction:
A licensed music teacher will teach music instruction as part of the regular curriculum. An art
specialist has been hired to teach art. If you are interested in helping with any extracurricular
education please inform your child’s teacher or the room parent coordinator.
Library/Media center:
DIA has a library and computer labs with a fulltime librarian. The computer lab will provide children
with access to software designed to teach students the basics of computer technology. All students
must sign the acceptable use policy before being allowed to use the computers.
Physical education:
Children are expected to participate in outdoor and physical education activities with their class under
the direction of the teacher and/or the P.E. Specialist. Consideration will only be given to children
who have a medical excuse with a doctor or parent’s note for not participating.
Special Education:
DIA employs Special Education Teachers who will provide the services required on IEPs, support
regular classroom teachers in providing specialized services, and supervise assistants to help
students with IEPs as students remain in their regular classrooms. External services may be
contracted as needed.
26Speech Services:
Speech services will be available during specified school hours to meet the needs of speech or
hearing impaired students. These services will be contracted out as deemed necessary by the child’s
IEP and the school director.
Pre-School Services:
DIA maintains a private-pay preschool run by a DIA employee. For rate information please contact
the front office at 801-972-1425 or preschool coordinator, Liz Steed, at extension 102.
Additional Policies:
Donations
DIA greatly appreciates donations from parents, extended family and friends. We are very grateful for
monetary donations or donations of educational materials, software, games, books, puzzles and
equipment for our office and classrooms. You can discuss a need with your student’s teacher or the
Director. DIA is incorporated as a non-profit organization so donations may be tax deductible.
Food/Drink Policy
Food and drink are permitted only in designated areas. All Food products brought into school to be
shared must be prepackaged (i.e. not made at home) Please consult your child’s teacher for any
allergies in the classroom. DIA encourages students to bring a water bottle with them so that they
can hydrate continually during the day. Gum is not allowed on campus.
Birthdays
Each teacher has a procedure on celebrating birthdays. Please check with your child’s teacher on
the appropriate procedure. If bringing in treats please remember they must be prepackaged from the
store and be sure to check for allergies. This is in accordance with Utah state law. We at DIA ask
that birthday invitations be handed out at the end of the day or by phone so that some children don’t
feel left out.
Student Cell Phones
No student is allowed to have a cell phone. Cell phones found in the possession of students will be
confiscated and held until a parent or guardian can pick up the phone in person and speak with an
administrator or the teacher. Any cell phone brought to school with or without written permission is
the responsibility of the student. DIA will not be held responsible for any damage or loss. Students
who need a cell phone to contact parents after school, may check it in with the receptionists before
school starts and retrieve it after school is out and they are leaving campus.
27Textbooks
Textbooks and other materials will be issued by DIA to each student at no cost. If a book/material is
lost or damaged, it is the responsibility of the student and parents/guardians to pay for the book and
notify the appropriate teacher or administrator.
Closed Campus
DIA operates on a closed campus system. Once children are on school grounds they are not
permitted to leave without following proper checkout procedures. Children are not allowed to go to
the store or to a friend’s house during school hours.
Lost and Found
Please bring any found items to the main office. Lost and found items are kept in the cafeteria. Lost
clothing (jackets, sweaters and backpacks) will be kept until the end of each semester. In December
and June, any uncollected items in the lost and found will be donated to charity.
Items from home
Items such as: skateboards/roller blades, electronic equipment, cell phones, toys (especially toy
guns), pets and expensive items should not be brought onto school grounds. DIA is not responsible
for replacing any stolen or broken items brought from home.
Games, Toys and Outdoor Equipment
Students are not to bring any items from home except for those things directly related to classroom
use, school projects or approved school wide activities. That means that no student should bring
marbles, cards (Pokemon, Yugioh, etc.), stuffed animals, dolls, etc.
Complaints
Should any parent have a grievance with another parent an incident report (available at the main
office) should be filled out and put on file with the VIA organization with in 72hrs. If problems arise
and no incident report is filed then all communication about it will be considered gossip and not
tolerated. Complaints or problems needing to be resolved between parents and teachers should be
discussed directly with the teacher or other staff person directly. If problems are unable to be resolved
satisfactorily in a personal conversations with the two people involved, parents can then take the
problem to the director, following the proper grievance policy. If a parent is having a problem with the
director, they should try to resolve the problem personally with the director. After first speaking to the
director, if they are unable to come to a satisfactory solution they can place a complaint against the
director with the board of directors.
School Property
Students are expected to treat school property with respect. Students are expected to maintain a
clean desk and any damage should be reported to the main office.
Parent Involvement:
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